[2025 Matsuyama ] Travel Guide for Dogo Onsen Honkan (Updated Jul)

#Matsuyama #Dogo Onsen, the inspiration for Sen and Chihiro These days, #Japanese small city #hot spring travel is popular 🇰🇷Collaboration with Jeju Air, a Korean-friendly city ❗️With just a Korean passport, you can get a lot of benefits - Airport 👉🏻 Free shuttle near the hotel - Dogo Onsen Annex 1 time free - Matsuyama Castle 🏰 Free lift, free Tenshukaku admission (It may change slightly, so check on the day) ✅ How to get there: You can get near the hotel with Jeju Air free shuttle ✅ Attractions: ✔️Dogo Onsen ✔️Botchan Clock Tower ✔️Matsuyama Castle ✔️Okaido Shopping Street ✔️Giant Ferris Wheel Kururin (9th floor of Takashiyama Department Store) ✅ Hotel: ✔️Patio Dogo Hotel (80,000 won as of July 24) ✔️Hotel Vista Matsuyama 60,000 won ✅ Recommended food & restaurants: 👉🏻 Near Dogo Onsen: Dogo Uotake - Sushi set (Tendon restaurant) Dogo Inari Yunoya Dogo Main Branch - Inari Sushi Restaurant Mamma Nabe Udon - Traditional Nabe Udon (Taste is average) Dogo Yukemuri Cafe - Dango 🍡 Restaurant Yakko sushi 🍣 Sushi set restaurant (Must ask for a little wasabi!) Gansui Matsuyama specialty sea bream rice restaurant Botchan Japanese home restaurant Only 500 yen (Smells like grandma's cigarettes🥲) ✅ Shopping information: ✔️Dogo Onsen Arcade Shop ✔️Okaido Shopping Street

7 beautiful scenes from Hayao Miyazaki's animations, check-in to the fairy tale world Recently, Hayao Miyazaki's new work "How Do You Live?" was released. Have you seen it? Every work of Hayao Miyazaki is worth watching. Most of his animation scenes also exist in reality, so why not check in? * , Yakushima, Kagoshima ←1997 "Princess Mononoke" Yakushima is located on the sea surface south of Sata Cape in the southern part of Kagoshima Prefecture. With its rich natural resources, it is a World Natural Heritage Site together with the Shirakami Mountains in Aomori and Akita Prefectures. Famous attractions include Shiratani Unsuikyo, Senhiro Waterfall, etc. There are also a large number of wild animals, including Yakushima deer and Yakushima monkeys. * Saitama Prefecture Sayama Hills 1998 "My Neighbor Totoro" Many scenes in "My Neighbor Totoro" are inspired by Sayama Hills in Saitama City. Here, the home of Mei and Satsuki is now open to the public. Does the small house with red tiles and white walls evoke your childhood memories? * Matsuyama Castle Dogo Onsen 2001 "Spirited Away" The appearance of Yubaba's "Aburaya" is based on the Dogo Onsen Honkan in Ehime Prefecture. It is a three-story wooden building. You can stroll in it, choose to rest in the rest area, and experience Japanese life. Hiroshima Koshinoura 2008 "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea" Koshinoura is located in Hiroshima Prefecture and is a coastal town with a history of thousands of years. When Hayao Miyazaki created "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea", he lived here for three months. This seaside town that existed in the Edo period has the sound of fishermen and waves, and it is a good place for leisure. * Karuizawa 2013 "The Wind Rises" The place where Jiro Horikoshi and Naoko met in "The Wind Rises" is Japan's summer resort-Karuizawa. The hotel where the two lived in the movie is said to be based on the old Mikasa Hotel in Karuizawa. Yufuin Flower Village 1989 "Kiki's Delivery Service" The animated film revolves around Kiki, a 13-year-old witch apprentice. She and her cat left home and came to the city, opened a small bakery, learned to deliver, and helped people around with flying brooms. The bakery in the movie is actually inspired by a bakery of the same name in Yufuin Flower Village. The village has a quaint Western style, low roofs, cobblestones, and flowers hanging at the door. * Shodoshima Olive Park 1989 "Kiki's Delivery Service" Shodoshima Olive Park is famous for the anime "Kiki's Delivery Service". This is also a real place in Kagawa. The park is named because there are many olive trees planted here. There are more than 2,000 plants, and there are more than 130 different types of herbs. The huge white windmill is located on a high mountain facing the sea.

I have been wanting to visit Dogo Onsen in Shikoku for years. It is one of the oldest in Japan. for all the Miyazaki fans , it is the building that appeared in the film- Spirited Away. We arrived in Dogo Onsen town in late morning and parked in the nearby parking lots. The covered shopping street was already quite vibrant and ready for the lunch hours. We followed the street to the end and came to the spot where I was supposed to see the beautiful onsen house. Instead, I saw a colorful hoarding covering all three sides of the building ! Only the lower part of the front facade and the entrance was not covered! As I finally learned, the building is under going renovation for 7 years. ( starting Jan 2019 ). Whether there was delay due to covid, I am not sure. So disappointingly, we can only see part of this building and read about the history of the Onsen in the little exhibition house across the street. Hopefully I will have the chance to go back when the work is completed. The good thing is that the Onsen is still opened for business during this time. Aside from the Onsen, there are also other fun things to do such as the foot bath at the park, and plenty of shops for shopping and enjoying udon which is famous in Shikoku. Hours- 6am-11 pm daily #Dogoonsen #Matsuyama #Onseninjapan

#Overseas travel - Location: Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture - Address: 5-6, Matsuyama City, Dogo-Yujincho, 〒790-0842 - Features: After using a private or public hot spring, you can enjoy refreshments in a private room - Rating: 5.0/5.0 Dogo Onsen is a representative tourist destination in Matsuyama and a hot spring loved by Natsume Soseki. It is the setting of the novel “Dorenchama,” and as a city famous for its tangerines, there are many shops selling tangerine juice as gifts in the Dogo Onsen shopping district. Dogo Onsen has three floors, and the baths are on the 1st and 2nd floors. The 1st floor is a public bath, and the 2nd floor is a private bath. If you use the private bath, you can enjoy refreshments in a private room on the 3rd floor and enjoy the cool breeze. I highly recommend it!!! #Japan travel #vacation travel #city travel

I went to three hot springs, "Dogo Onsen Main Building", "Dogo Onsen Annex Asuka no Yusen", and "Tsubaki no Yu", located a 5-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station in Ehime Prefecture. Part of the Dogo Onsen Main Building is under renovation, and the design of the entrance and back was different, which was interesting. I was soothed by soaking in the hot springs with a long history. By the way, Tsubaki no Yu is a hot spring that is often used by locals. I recommend using the rental towels from "Iori Main Store" to go on a tour of hot springs. A glass of tangerine juice is included from the tap. 🍊 I think it's a great service because you can experience the comfort of Imabari towels and there is also a box where you can return towels outside of business hours! "Dogo Onsen Main Building" 5-6 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture Business hours 6:00 ~23:00 "Dogo Onsen Annex Asuka no Yusen" 19-22 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture Business hours 6:00 ~23:00 "Tsubaki no Yu" 19-22 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture Business hours 6:30 ~23:00 "Iori Main Store" Address 20-21 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture Business hours 9:00 ~21:00 #Hot spring trip#Dogo Onsen #Rental towels #Iori Main Store

Dogo Onsen ♨️ was undergoing renovation work, but it was pretty nice. I stayed at the hotel opposite, and the view from there was beautiful, so it was refreshing to see Dogo Onsen from above. Dogo Onsen Station was also retro and cute, so the town had a nostalgic atmosphere.

We would like to introduce you to Dogokan, a Japanese-style inn located in Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. The welcome drink was Ehime specialty orange juice🍊 The refreshing taste blew away the fatigue of traveling! Dogokan's hot springs are 100% natural! The hotel is equipped with a large public bath, an open-air bath, an open-air bath in the guest room, and even a sauna.◎It is open from 5am to midnight, so you can enjoy the hot springs to your heart's content after checking in. (Please double check the hours) For dinner, we had a luxurious meal of sashimi, simmered dishes, and Ehime specialty sea bream rice! For breakfast, we had Japanese food that was good for the body, so we felt happy from the morning😊 There are shopping streets and convenience stores in the area, so it's fun to walk around the town after the hot springs! Please check it out! Address: 7-26 Dogo Takomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture #hocance #hot spring trip #hot spring inn #hot spring #couple trip #prefectural resident discount #luxury hotel

#Overseas Travel#Japan Travel Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture is one of the three major ancient hot spring areas in Japan, along with Arima Onsen in Kobe and Shirahama Onsen in Wakayama. Natural hot springs flowing from the source, quaint streets... Dogo Onsen is located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku. It has a Seto Inland Sea climate, with little rainfall throughout the year and relatively warm temperatures. All seasons are suitable for hot spring travel 😆😆😆 ✅ Unlike other secret hot springs, Dogo Onsen has convenient transportation. You can easily get there by taking the Iyo City Tram at Matsuyama City Station😆😆 address 5-6 Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture transportation About 5 minutes on foot from Iyo Railway Dogo Onsen Station

I went to Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Shikoku. It is said to be the largest hot spring town in Shikoku, and Matsuyama city is also the largest city in Shikoku. Aside from hot springs, there are also many gourmet and walking spots. I love the unique atmosphere and want to go to Dogo Onsen regularly. The nabeyaki udon, a Matsuyama specialty, is also delicious. It's easily accessible from Matsuyama Airport, so be sure to check it out! #hotspring #DogoOnsen #Matsuyama #Shikoku

🌟 I went to Dogo Onsen 🌟 ⁡ I finally got to go!! ️!! ️ ⁡ I've wanted to go to Dogo Onsen for about a year now ⁡ I never had the chance to go😓 ⁡ ⁡ It was typhoon season so I was worried about what would happen ⁡ but the weather held up somehow😂 ⁡ It rained on the next day trip... ⁡ ⁡ The inn was spacious and nice, and the open-air bath was clean ⁡ We had almost the whole place to ourselves and talked the whole time✨✨ ⁡ Even though we were university students, we talked the whole time about investment... ⁡ ⁡ For more information about Dogo Onsen, ⁡ I wrote about it in my Ehime Prefecture recommendation post, so please read it😋 ⁡ ⁡ Finally, what I thought on my trip to Shikoku! ⁡ The biggest thing I thought was that it's impossible without a car. ⁡ I get the impression that there are a lot of places with beautiful scenery‼️ ⁡ ⁡ What is it like for people who live in Shikoku? 😏 ⁡ ⁡ It's okay to post about your trips at your own pace #DogoOnsen #Shikoku #HotSpringTrip #AmazingView

I'm glad I went on a solo female trip💕 I've compiled a list of 5 hot springs from around Japan!! ① Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture) ② Yunokawa Onsen (Hokkaido) ③ Hakone Yumoto Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture) ④ Atami Onsen (Shizuoka Prefecture) ⑤ Yufuin Onsen (Oita Prefecture) I hope this will be helpful for solo travelers♪ #recommended list #hot springs #hot spring trip

Dogo Hakuro is still new and stylish 🏨 It's conveniently located within walking distance of the Dogo Onsen main building and the shopping district 😊 The rooms are simple but very stylish with record players ✨ Free coffee in the lounge on the first floor ☕️ There was also cake on this day ❣️ The large public bath is also in Dogo Onsen, so it was very comfortable 😊 ＊Dogo Hakuro 3-1 Dogo Sagiya-cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 790-0836 #Hot spring #Dogo Onsen #Hot spring trip #Dogo Hakuro #Ehime trip

#DogoOnsen Visited on December 1st. Dogo Onsen is known as one of Japan's three great hot springs, along with Kusatsu Onsen and Beppu Onsen. It can be reached by taking a 20-minute tram ride from Matsuyama Station and walking for about 5 minutes from the nearest station. There is a main building and an annex, and this time we visited the main building. The main building was undergoing exterior construction work so we couldn't find it at first, but the water was amazing and we were able to relax soak in it for as long as we wanted. #CoolTravelExperience

I went to Dogo Onsen for the first time. It was my first time in Ehime Prefecture, so I enjoyed the hot springs at a leisurely pace👍 Which hot spring do you like best♨️ #DogoOnsen #Dogo #Shikoku #HotSpringTrip #HotSpring

The hot spring town, which boasts a history of about 3,000 years, is full of retro atmosphere, and you can fully experience the extraordinary feeling of having traveled back in time. The town is compact and very comfortable to walk around, centered around the Dogo Onsen main building. There are many attractive accommodations, and this time we will introduce "Dogo Hakuro", a stylish hotel designed by a famous architect that just opened in July 2020. This hotel is full of attention to detail, and the dark and modern interior of the rooms and the atmosphere of the lounge are just too wonderful! It's a hotel where you can work remotely while taking a bath in the hot spring. #HotSpring #DogoOnsen #Ehime #Matsuyama #HotSpringTrip

Thousands of Chihiro "Oil House" framing the road After the hot spring main building this Ehime County trip, has been a long time to see thousands and thousands of quests ~ but came to the local, there is still a sense of deja vu. The movie is impressive, and the scenes in reality are very special. The Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City has a history of 3,000 years and is listed as the three ancient springs in Japan. The "Oil House" in the Spirited Away is based on the Doosan Onsen Main Building built in 1894. Lue Ge once appeared in the postcard of the travel frog~ watching the exterior of the building at night, and the colorful windows on the second and third floors are particularly attractive. This is from the design of Suichuan real flower, which is part of the local art activities. The public large bathroom on the first floor, to tell the truth, it didn't take long to quit, there are too many people - the Houhou Hot Spring seems to be very popular among Japanese elderly tourists. If you come here, you can go to the upper floor without bathing. The Japanese royal family's royal bathroom "new hall", special person to explain, the third floor rest area, there is the "between young masters" that Natsume Soseki once visited. If you want to bathe in the hot springs of Dow, it is recommended to go to the new building, the environment facilities are better.

Ehime Prefecture Dogo Onsen has a history of 3,000 years and is one of the three ancient springs in Japan, attending rheumatism.

Daohou Hot Spring is one of the three ancient springs in Japan and has a history of 3,000 years. During this period, it was the art exhibition of the Doosan Hot Springs Main Building and the Sasakawa Shira. She transplanted the magnificent and fascinating photography style to this ancient hot spring, and let the Dogo Onsen main building exude a new look. The spring water of the road after the hot spring can not only maintain beauty, but also treat neuralgia and muscle pain. In addition, the Dogo Onsen Main Building is an important cultural heritage of Japan's designated countries. When you come here, you can not only run the hot springs, but also experience the continuation of history. Local hot spring culture has been deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. On the hot spring street, men and women wearing yukata can be seen everywhere. Their faces are full of comfortable expressions. There is such an ancient spring. I think the local people will receive a lot of Fukuzawa! Daohou Hot Spring Main Building: Aiyama, Matsuyama-shi, Minato-ku, Yunomachi, 5-6, Housaka Onsen Exit, about 3 minutes walk

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Dogo Haikara Street, located right next to the Dogo Onsen Main Building, is a 250m arcade lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and sweets shops, making it an exciting main street in the hot spring town just to walk through✨ When you actually walk there, you'll find lots of photogenic spots, such as tourists strolling around in yukata, faucets that dispense mandarin orange juice, and retro general stores📸🍊There's also a wide variety of gourmet food to eat while walking around, and the "mandarin orange soft serve" was especially delicious! It's just a short walk from Iyotetsu Dogo Onsen Station. It's perfect as a base for sightseeing, as you can enjoy it as a set with the Dogo Onsen Main Building and Asuka no Yusen♨️ The key to success is the evening! The lit-up street is fantastic, with a different atmosphere from the daytime. If you rent a yukata and walk around, you'll feel even more like you're traveling👘✨ A leisurely stroll with your partner, or a carefree stroll around eating on your own. Dogo Haikara Street is a place that gives you a "haikara" time that will color your travel memories💕 #Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Dogo Haikara Street #Food walking trip #Retro walk #Ehime sightseeing

🛁 Structure & Usage Information The main building consists of two types of baths: **Kami-no-yu (神の湯)** and **Tama-no-yu (霊の湯)**. Tama-no-yu offers seating on the second floor and private or special rooms (Shirasagi-no-ma, Soaring Room) on the third floor. • Kami-no-yu (1st Floor): Separate baths for men and women, requiring only an admission ticket, making it the most affordable option. • Tama-no-yu (2nd Floor Seating): Includes seating on the second floor, along with tea and snack service. • Tama-no-yu (3rd Floor Private Room): Enjoy a private space with hot springs and refreshments. • Special Room (Shirasagi-no-ma / Soaring Room): Requires prior reservation and includes access to the imperial bath 'Yūshinden' as part of the course. ⸻ 🕰️ Hours of Operation & Location • Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM (last entry times vary by facility). • Closed: One day in December annually for deep cleaning. • Location: Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, about a 5-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station. ⸻ 🎟️ Tips for Use 1. Fees: Prices vary by course, with Kami-no-yu on the first floor costing around ¥700 for adults. 2. Reservations: Private rooms on the third floor and special conditions can be reserved via the website or by phone until 10:00 PM the night before. 3. Yukata Attire: Yukata and sashes are provided for use in seating areas on the second floor and above after bathing. 4. Refreshments: Enjoy tea and traditional snacks after bathing—cold drinks are also available upon request. 5. Souvenirs: The Tama-no-ishi (stone) with a white heron design is a popular souvenir and can be purchased at the shop or nearby stores.

Today, I want to share my experience visiting Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Japan. If you love hot springs or enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere, this is a must-visit destination! 📍 What is Dogo Onsen? Dogo Onsen is located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, and is known as one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. Its history spans over 3,000 years! It is even mentioned in the ancient Japanese chronicle, "Nihon Shoki," and was once used by the Japanese imperial family. The most famous building is the Dogo Onsen Honkan, which is said to have inspired the bathhouse in the animated film "Spirited Away." Seeing it in person feels like stepping into a fairytale—it’s truly beautiful and historic ✨ 🕰 Operating Hours & Admission Info Currently, the main building is undergoing partial renovations, so the focus is on the annex "Asuka-no-Yu" and "Tsubaki-no-Yu." • Asuka-no-Yu Operating Hours: 6:00 AM–11:00 PM (Last admission at 10:30 PM) Fee: General admission 600 yen (varies by course) Features: Traditional Asuka-era concept combined with modern facilities! • Tsubaki-no-Yu Operating Hours: 6:30 AM–11:00 PM Fee: 400 yen Features: A community-style public bath often frequented by locals! 🚋 How to Get There Getting to Dogo Onsen from Matsuyama City is super easy by tram. • Take the tram from Matsuyama-shi Station → Get off at Dogo Onsen Station (about 20 minutes) When you arrive at Dogo Onsen Station, you’ll be greeted by a street scene that feels like a time slip to the Meiji era. Retro shops, people in yukata, and the distant view of the Dogo Onsen Honkan—it’s absolutely charming 💘 Dogo Onsen is more than just a hot spring; it’s a place where you can experience history, ambiance, and relaxation all at once. Though my stay was brief, the tranquility and warmth lingered with me for a long time. If I ever visit Matsuyama again, I’ll definitely return. If you want to experience the true "hot spring vibe" of Japan, make sure to add Dogo Onsen to your list!

I went to Ehime Matsuyama and discovered the charm of Shikoku. If you have been to Osaka, Kyoto, or Tokyo, Shikoku may be another good choice for you to explore Japan. If you go to Dogo Onsen Honkan and just take pictures outside, you will only get a tourist photo full of people. If you walk for a few minutes to the Sora no Promenade, you can enjoy the beauty of the hundreds of years old building "Dogo Onsen Honkan" from a high place. At the same time, there is a free foot bath here, which is relatively low in temperature. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery with three or five friends, families or couples while soaking in the foot bath. In Ehime Matsuyama, most travelers plan for two days and one night. If you want to extend the exploration of the charm of Matsuyama, you can add Imabari, Uwajima, and Ishizuchiyama. Or the itinerary radiates to Kochi or Kagawa. The following is a two-day and one-night itinerary that I personally walked, providing suggestions. Day1: Plan to arrive at noon, check in at the hotel first or store your luggage first. Most hotels are located in the Okaido shopping street or Katsuyama-cho. You can first taste the famous sea bream rice in Matsuyama in the Okaido shopping street. 📍Address: 2 Chome−２−3, Ehime, Matsuyama, Okaido, 790-0004, Japan After lunch, take the tram to Dogo Onsen Station. Don’t rush at this time. The clock of the official announcement of the park will have a cute Bo-chan theme every hour. And there is also a foot bath for travelers to use. 📍Address of the Park: 6−7, Dogo Yu-no-machi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, 790-0842 It is recommended to walk to Ishitemachi Temple first, walk for about 15 minutes, and feel the beauty of the traditional temple recommended by Michelin one star, then go through the cave to the mysterious Fudoki Hill to experience the incredible Mantua-style architecture. 📍Ishitemachi Temple Address: 2 Chome-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0852 Japan 📍Fudoki-no-Oka Address: Jokojicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0851 Japan Then walk along the mountain road, and you will reach Isaniwa Shrine in about ten minutes. This is the main shrine of Dogo and one of the three major Hachiman-style buildings in Japan. Explore the beautiful Japanese architecture and faith stories. Then walk for five minutes to Yu Shrine and Nakajima Shrine to learn about the legend of Dogo Onsen. 📍Isaniwa Shrine Address: 173 Sakuradanicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0838 Japan 📍Yu Shrine Address: 4-4-10 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan Walk along the left side of Yu Shrine for one minute and you will arrive at the "Sora no Sanpachi" where you can soak in the foot bath and enjoy the beautiful Dogo Onsen Main Building. 📍Address: 4-30 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan Then don't miss it and experience the Dogo Onsen Main Building which has just been renovated and opened after five and a half years. Take a bath, rest in the Japanese-style room and take photos to feel the flow of time in Dogo Onsen. 📍Dogo Onsen Main Building Address: 5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan It's dinner time. You can go to Dogo Shopping Street and have a meal here. Don't miss the different architectural styles of Dogo Onsen Annex "Asuka no Onsen" next to the shopping street. Finally, walk to the station, take the tram to Okaido Station, check in at the hotel and rest. Day2: If you stay at Okaido Station, you can walk to Higashi-Umoguchi Cable Car Station and take the cable car or ropeway to Matsuyama Castle. It is recommended to take the cable car up and the ropeway down, so you can experience two different experiences at once. 📍Cable Station Address: 73 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008 Japan In Matsuyama Castle, you can fully experience the majesty and history. At the same time, you can add the Sakano no Kumo Museum to your itinerary to experience the era and characters written by Shiba Ryotaro or in the Taiga drama. 📍Sakano-no-kumo Address: Japan 〒790-0001 Ehime, Matsuyama, Ichibancho, 3 Chome−２０ 📍Matsuyama Castle Address: 1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008 Japan After returning to Higashiguchi, don't miss the castle town. There are citrus juice that you can drink from the tap, excellent towels made in Imabari, and souvenirs from Ehime. There are also many restaurant options here. I tried a fashionable sea bream ramen here, and the refreshing taste is very special. Of course, there is also a cafe here, where you can enjoy coffee, desserts and light meals. 📍Address: 3 Chome-6-4 Okaido, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0004 Japan #5月好去处2025

After five and a half years of renovations, Dogo Onsen finally reopened last July, with all restoration work completed by the end of the year. To soak in this 3,000-year-old hot spring, the oldest in Japan, I planned a trip to Matsuyama and unexpectedly discovered the beauty and cultural richness of Ehime. Speaking of Dogo Onsen, it is steeped in legends. According to mythology, the deity Ōkuninushi placed the ailing deity Sukunahikona in his palm and warmed him with the waters of Dogo Onsen. Miraculously, Sukunahikona recovered instantly and even danced gracefully on a stone. This stone, known as the "Tama no Ishi" (Jewel Stone), is enshrined on the north side of the main building. In local folklore, a wounded white heron discovered a hot spring bubbling from the rocks. It bathed there daily and soon regained its ability to fly. Villagers, inspired by the heron's recovery, dug a pool to try bathing themselves and found it relieved fatigue and promoted well-being. Another tale recounts that Prince Shōtoku once bathed in the onsen and praised its miraculous properties, declaring it a place where people of all classes could enjoy its benefits—a true utopia. With its blend of history, folklore, and mythology, Dogo Onsen's status is unshakable. The main building, now renovated, exudes a rustic elegance. Admission fees range from 700 to 2,500 yen, offering access to different facilities. This time, I chose the first-floor "Kami no Yu" bath and the second-floor lounge. Inside, the renovated building uses floor projections to guide visitors without compromising the historical aesthetic. Soaking in the ancient bath, surrounded by stone carvings, history, and shifting light and shadows, while listening to Japanese visitors chat, felt like stepping back in time. Notably, the staff mentioned that the onsen water here is blended from 18 different sources to achieve the perfect bathing temperature, emphasizing that it is "neither reheated nor diluted." After the bath, you can relax in the lounge with hot tea and snacks or take photos along the wooden corridors to capture the beauty of Dogo Onsen. Before leaving, don't forget to visit the gift shop to purchase a beautifully crafted "Onsen Seal" as a memento of this unforgettable experience. 📍Address: 5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842, Japan 🚗 Take the tram to Dogo Onsen Station, then walk five minutes to reach the onsen.

This time, my travel destination was Matsuyama, located in Shikoku, Japan! I was captivated by the quiet and cozy atmosphere unique to this small city and spent a few peaceful days there. 📍 Matsuyama Castle Matsuyama Castle, standing tall in the heart of the city, is a must-visit! The ropeway ride up was so much fun, and the panoramic view of Matsuyama from the top of the castle was truly breathtaking. The blend of history and nature in the scenery was so beautiful that I stayed there for quite a while. 📍 Baishin Area The hidden gem of this trip was the Baishin area. Quiet alleys, charming little shops, and the warm hospitality of the locals. Since there weren’t many tourists, I could genuinely experience the everyday life and leisure of Japan. 📍 Dogo Onsen Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, was another highlight. The serene atmosphere of the hot spring town and the traditional houses were impressive. Especially in the evening, strolling around in a yukata brought an indescribable sense of relaxation. The main building of Dogo Onsen looked like a scene straight out of an animation, and soaking in the warm water melted away all my fatigue. This simple yet profound trip to Matsuyama is something I highly recommend. For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and take a slow walk at your own pace, this is a must-visit 💙

#AprilTravelSupport 📍Dogo Rilakkuma Hot Springs Location: 13-20 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan 🎁 The charm of the Rilakkuma Shop - The Rilakkuma Shop located in the Dogo Onsen shopping arcade is a popular souvenir spot in Matsuyama. It is full of cute Rilakkuma-themed key rings, dolls, and stationery, capturing the hearts of fans! (Tip: Be careful of limited edition goods selling out early ⚠️)🛍️ Recommended items - Rilakkuma Hot Springs-themed key rings and local citrus collaboration snacks make great gifts! (Tip: Browse other character shops in the shopping arcade together 🛒)📸 Emotional point - Take a certification shot with the Rilakkuma decoration at the store entrance! (Tip: Visit around 3pm for the quiet 🌞)✨ Shop for cute memories at the Dogo Onsen Rilakkuma Shop! #Dogo Hot Springs

As the saying goes, the greater the hope, the greater the disappointment. I paid to take a bath in the hot spring, which was the filming location of the cartoon movie Spirited Away. I arrived around 8:30pm, but there were still about 40-50 people queuing at the door, which made me more confident that I had come to the right place. I waited for about 15 minutes before I was allowed inside. However, since I only paid the most basic bathing fee, I could only bathe on the first floor. The process is similar to that of a normal hot spring bath. You have to take care of your shoes first, then go inside and take off all your clothes and put them in a safe. Then you can take a simple shower. However, I didn't expect that there were not enough shower spaces, so I had to wait in line for six or seven people. I didn't expect that I would have to queue up for hot spring bathing. This was the first time I encountered this. After bathing, I went to the central bathing pool. This pool was only big enough to accommodate 15 to 20 people, and I barely found a seat to sit down. After soaking for a while, I thought it would be like other hot springs, with pools and facilities for use. In the end, I found that there was no sauna, no other facilities, let alone an open-air bath. I paid 700 yen, but ended up enjoying the place for less than 20 minutes before leaving. So I sincerely recommend that you don't pay to come in, just take photos at the door.

Located just a short walk from the Dogo Onsen Honkan, Hotel Tsubakikan is a charming accommodation with a retro atmosphere reminiscent of the Meiji era. From the moment you step into the lobby adorned with large stained glass windows, you'll feel transported to another time. The space feels like a Western-style mansion from the Taisho era, instantly lifting your spirits! In the evening, you can enjoy the hotel's signature "Botchan Theater Show," offering entertainment right within the ryokan. The spacious onsen allows you to fully relax and indulge in the famous Dogo hot springs. For breakfast, there's even a tangerine juice tasting corner, a specialty of Ehime! Don't miss exploring the Dogo area on foot. A must-try is the "Mikan Juice Tap" located in the Dogo shopping street. It's perfect for sipping as you stroll and snapping some Instagram-worthy photos. Sweet, fresh, and rejuvenating for your tired body! Of course, you can't skip the iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan. Known as Japan's oldest hot spring, its historic building is impressive even from the outside. Despite undergoing renovations, it's still open, so be sure to check it out. Visiting early in the morning is a hidden gem tip, as it's relatively quiet and offers a serene bathing experience. 📍 Hotel Tsubakikan & Matsuyama/Dogo Stroll ✴︎ Address: 5-32 Dogosagidani-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture (Hotel Tsubakikan) ✴︎ Access: About an 8-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station / About a 30-minute drive from Matsuyama Airport ✴︎ Price: From around 10,000 yen per night with two meals (varies by season) ✴︎ Hours: Check-in from 3:00 PM, Check-out by 10:00 AM The entire town exudes a retro charm that soothes your soul just by walking around. With hot springs, gourmet food, and retro experiences all in one, this is a healing trip you won't want to miss!

#AprilTravelSupport A 9-day, 3-month-4-second cherry blossom trip that I set off on with great determination! A beautiful park, Matsuyama Castle on the top of the mountain, a cable car, and cherry blossoms. I was glad I came at the right time. Is there anything better to see? It was amazing that there was a tram that was convenient to go anywhere. The shopping streets and department stores were well-organized, and local specialties were well-promoted. Dogo Onsen was as quiet as its old history. It was amazing that there was a rickshaw experience nearby. There were quite a few unmanned stations by the seaside, so it was nice to see. The cherry blossoms in bloom on the coastal slopes, the blue sea, and the rape blossoms were spectacular. I wanted to go to Aoshima, famous for its cat island, but I couldn't go because of the strong waves. However, I went to a cat cafe in a Japanese family's house that protects cats, and I was able to play with the cats. I sat on a park bench with regret, and took in the spring breeze, fluttering cherry blossoms, and the quiet sky. I want to see that sight again.

#Spring0yentrip Dogo Onsen Honkan is a historic hot spring facility built in 1894 in Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. The stately three-story wooden building is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and its retro and tasteful appearance continues to attract visitors. Access: * City tram: Get off at the Iyotetsu City Tram "Dogo Onsen" stop, then walk for about 5 minutes. * Bus: Get off at the Iyotetsu Bus "Dogo Onsen Ekimae" stop. * Car: About 20 minutes from Matsuyama IC on the Matsuyama Expressway. There are many paid parking lots in the area. Attractions: The greatest attraction of Dogo Onsen Honkan is its unique atmosphere, woven with history and culture. * Historic building: The main building, which conveys the architectural style of the Meiji era, is a nostalgic space that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. There are many things to see, even down to the smallest details, such as the egret statue on the roof and the interior design. * "Tama-no-yu" and "Kami-no-yu": The spring water is alkaline and simple, and is known for being gentle on the skin. The main building has two baths with different styles, "Tama-no-yu" and "Kami-no-yu," each of which offers a different bathing experience. The bath reserved for the imperial household in "Tama-no-yu" (open for viewing only) is a must-see. * "Botchan no Ma": You can visit the VIP room "Botchan no Ma," which also appears in Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan" (fee required). You can reminisce about what it was like back then. * "Karakuri Clock": The "Karakuri Clock" at the front of the main building is a popular mechanical clock that makes the characters from "Botchan" appear every hour on the hour. * Hospitality after the bath: After your bath, you can relax in the lounge with tea and sweets (fees vary depending on the bath and lounge you use). * Strolling around the area: Around the main building, you'll find Dogo Onsen Shopping Street, lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, so you can enjoy a stroll after your bath. There are also spots where you can casually enjoy the hot springs, such as foot baths and hand baths. Dogo Onsen Main Building is not just a hot spring facility, but a historic building that symbolizes Japan's hot spring culture, and is a special space that heals both body and mind. If you visit Matsuyama, be sure to enjoy its history and the blessings of its hot springs. Please note that the main building is currently undergoing preservation and repair work, so some facilities and times may not be available, so we recommend checking the official website in advance for the latest information.